CN102458202A

CN102458202A - Sheet product dispenser

Info

Publication number: CN102458202A
Application number: CN2010800277917A
Authority: CN
Inventors: H·J·戈金; R·W·科内尔; P·佐西马迪斯; N·麦克尼利
Original assignee: Georgia Pacific Consumer Products LP
Current assignee: GPCP IP Holdings LLC
Priority date: 2009-05-08
Filing date: 2010-05-06
Publication date: 2012-05-16
Anticipated expiration: 2030-05-06
Also published as: US8616489B2; TW201040100A; US10470622B2; US20100286817A1; US8777149B2; EP2427090A2; CN102458202B; CA2760805A1; US20140110522A1; WO2010129741A2; US20180064297A1; MX2011011804A; US9681783B2; WO2010129741A3; US20140263811A1; CA2760805C; US9839333B2; US20110253829A1

Abstract

A sheet product dispenser is provided for sheet product from a roller. The sheet product dispenser includes a first roll of sheet product, called a stub roll, a main roll of sheet product, and a dispensing arrangement. A sensor is provided for detecting when sheet product on a stub roll is depleted. The sensor generates a signal in response to the depletion of the stub roll and a controller activates an electromechanical actuator. The actuator acts to operate a transfer bar that moves an end portion of the main roll sheet product adjacent a roller assembly that engages the main roller sheet product.

Description

Sheet product dispenser

Background of invention

Present invention relates in general to a kind of sheet product dispenser, and be specifically related to a kind of sheet product dispenser that articles of sheet material is detected and the articles of sheet material that is used to distribute is loaded of being provided for.

Sheet product dispenser typically comprises a plurality of rolls of sheet product.Sheet product dispenser typically is arranged to allow the maintenance personal to utilize the volume of part depletion (being sometimes referred to as " residue volume ").The volume of this part depletion or residue volume are placed on the position that can distribute articles of sheet material at first usually, so that make the utilization maximization of articles of sheet material to the greatest extent, and make waste minimum.One second volume (normally full volume) also is placed in the sheet product dispenser, in case the residue volume has just been exhausted and can be used.

Be used for manually being loaded once more by the maintenance personal though some sheet product dispenser only stores this full volume, it is preferably just made second volume automatically distribute in case the residue volume exhausts generally in the future.The automatic distribution of second volume allows to make operator's the location of distributor can increase this time period between maintenance personal's visiting, thereby reduces operating cost, and cuts the waste.Articles of sheet material is to use a winding up roller system to distribute generally, and articles of sheet material passes between two windings up roller in this winding up roller system, and the frictional force that causes is from distributing this articles of sheet material of winding up roller pulling.

Through using a end to push the bar in these windings up roller, can accomplish the switching that is rolled onto this second volume from residue with the second roll film section product.In case the articles of sheet material of second volume has been positioned and has been resisted against on these windings up roller, the frictional force pulling articles of sheet material that causes is through these windings up roller and be assigned to the user then.What hope is to make that in the operation of sheet product dispenser waste is minimum so that make expense minimum to the greatest extent.Yet what also hope is that when the user launches sheet product dispenser, to have an articles of sheet material available.Multiple different sheet material distributor gear has been drawn in these requirements, and these sheet material distributor gears are attempted balance, and these have the demand of conflict to a certain extent.

The sense mechanism of one classification uses the mechanical lever of some type, and these mechanical levers rest on the external diameter that remains volume so that measure the amount of residue articles of sheet material.On some points, the diameter of residue volume is small enough to make this transfer device that allows the articles of sheet material from second volume to be assigned with of this lever.Though these mechanical system work are good, owing to use a mechanical lever to detect this coarse person's character of the diameter of residue volume, this system need be configured to before the residue volume exhausts fully, distribute second volume inevitably.When this situation takes place, when sheet product dispenser is activated, be assigned with from the articles of sheet material of two volumes.Though user's receiving sheet section product has been guaranteed in this arrangement, it has also caused the articles of sheet material of waste and the expense of increase.

The sense mechanism of second classification has utilized a sensor in the distribution chute that is positioned in sheet product dispenser.This distribution chute is near the zone the opening in the articles of sheet material, and this articles of sheet material shifts out from this opening, and is collected by the user.This sensor is connected on the microprocessor, the operation of this this sheet product dispenser of microprocessor control.Leading edge or this leading edge that these sensors are arranged to the detection lug section product do not exist.This microprocessor uses rim detection to guarantee that a plurality of perforation in articles of sheet material are suitably located so that the permission articles of sheet material can be by end user's tear fracture when the end of an assignment period.

The sheet product dispenser of this second classification also typically has two motor.These windings up roller of drive motor operation are so that distribute articles of sheet material as stated, and one is passed on one of motor activated and passes on bar so that go up the transfer blade section product from second volume.This passes on motor and is connected to this through a series of connecting rod and passes on the bar, and these connecting rods convert the rotatory motion of motor to this and pass on a kind of linear translation of bar.Though this arrangement has allowed articles of sheet material from second volume, automatically to distribute, and has caused several problems.At first; In this chute, use sensor use to be restricted on the articles of sheet material with a plurality of perforation, this is owing to may cause sensor to produce wrong signal for the desired this tear fracture motion of imperforated articles of sheet material (through for example using a tear fracture bar).Secondly, because this sensor has detected the leading edge of articles of sheet material, before the back edge of the articles of sheet material of rolling up from residue is passed through this sensor and triggered transfer device, with of short duration time of experience.Therefore, triggering this at the distribution of articles of sheet material and sheet product dispenser passes on motor and may have one section sizable gap when passing on bar.

Though present sheet product dispenser is to be applicable to its specific use, still exist for improvement, particularly about when articles of sheet material has been exhausted the improved a kind of needs that detect on the residue volume.Also exist for following improved a kind of needs, that is: providing consistent articles of sheet material to distribute for the end user when, waste is dropped to minimum.Also exist a kind of needs to come when saving battery electric quantity, to detect user's existence better.In addition, it is minimum to exist a kind of needs to make by the noise of sheet product dispenser generation.

Summary of the invention

According to an embodiment, a kind of sheet product dispenser is provided at this.This sheet product dispenser is included between a primary importance and the second place movably one and passes on bar.Winding up roller assembly is positioned in this and passes near second position of bar, and this winding up roller assembly has one and gives and send winding up roller and one to clamp winding up roller.Electromechanical actuator is arranged to have one and is connected to this and passes on the moveable portion on the bar, and wherein this moveable portion is arranged between this primary importance and this second place, move this and passes on bar.A sensor is arranged to be in exercisable the connection with this winding up roller assembly; This sensor is electrically connected on this electromechanical actuator, and wherein this moveable portion is in response to from signal of this sensor and this is passed on bar move to this second place from this primary importance.

According to another embodiment, a kind of method of distributing articles of sheet material is provided at this.This method comprises send near the step of carrying out sensing the winding up roller to existing one first articles of sheet material to give at one.If this first articles of sheet material is not sensed, then produce a signal.An electromechanical actuator is activated in response to this signal.When this electromechanical actuator is activated, the head end of one second articles of sheet material will move to a second place from a primary importance.

According to another embodiment, the distributor with articles of sheet material is provided at this.This distributor comprises the winding up roller assembly with an axle.This winding up roller assembly is arranged in response to one first signal on a first direction, rotate so that distribute articles of sheet material.A cam is connected on this end, and this cam has a protrusion that comprises a first surface and a second surface.Switch with an actuator arm is positioned near this cam.When this winding up roller assembly rotates on this first direction, this this first surface of actuator arm contact.Wherein the angle of this second surface is confirmed as and makes that this actuator slides into this first surface from this second surface when this winding up roller assembly rotates on a second direction.

According to another embodiment, a kind of sheet product dispenser is provided at this.This sheet product dispenser comprises an electromechanical actuator.Cam is operably connected on this electromechanical actuator so that turn to a second place from a primary importance, and this cam has a surface above that.A cam arm is arranged near this cam slidably.This cam arm has and this first contacting of surface, wherein when cam when this primary importance moves to this second place, this cam arm moves to one the 4th position from one the 3rd position.A transfer arm is connected on this cam arm, and this transfer arm is movably in response to move to this 4th position from this cam arm from the 3rd position between one the 5th position and one the 6th position.

According to another embodiment, a kind of sheet product dispenser is provided at this.This distributor comprises a framework and a winding up roller assembly that is connected on this framework.This winding up roller assembly is arranged on a first direction, rotate so that distribute articles of sheet material.A motor is arranged to have one.An insulating element is connected between this motor and this framework.A belt is connected between this winding up roller assembly and this axle.

According to another embodiment, a kind of method of operating sheet product dispenser is provided at this.This method comprises and determines when a pent step of lid.After this lid is closed, confirm that articles of sheet material is not distributable.When definite articles of sheet material is not to supply the branch timing, one is passed on bar and activated.A drive motor is activated, and articles of sheet material is positioned so that distribute.

According to another embodiment, a kind of sheet product dispenser is provided at this.This sheet product dispenser comprises a protecgulum.An optical transmitting set is positioned near this protecgulum and on one first angle with respect to this protecgulum.This optical transmitting set is with optical signal of shape emission of one first taper.An optical receiver is positioned in apart from one first distance of this optical transmitting set and on one second angle with respect to this protecgulum.It is the regional receiving optical signals of shape of one second taper on the whole that this optical transmitting set is configured to.Wherein this first angle and this second angle are arranged to make this first taper and this second taper overlapping.

Brief Description Of Drawings

Referring now to accompanying drawing,, the implication of these accompanying drawings is illustrative rather than restrictive, and wherein similar elements is numbered similarly:

Fig. 1 is the perspective view shows according to the sheet product dispenser of exemplary;

Fig. 2 is the perspective view shows of Fig. 1 sheet product dispenser;

Fig. 3 is the schematic diagram shows of Fig. 1 sheet product dispenser;

Fig. 4 is a block diagram shows of Fig. 1 sheet product dispenser;

Fig. 5 is the perspective view shows of an embodiment of the distributor gear of Fig. 1 sheet product dispenser;

Fig. 6 is that the reverse perspective view of Fig. 5 distributor gear is showed;

Fig. 7 is the partial view displaying that Fig. 5 distributor gear has removed the sensing lens;

Fig. 8 be proximity sensor the visual field, show for triggering this proximity sensor and have the schematic presentation in the zone of high likelihood;

Fig. 9 is that the fragmentary, perspective view of Fig. 5 distributor gear shows;

Figure 10 is that the fragmentary, perspective view of embodiment that is used for a sheet material transfer device of Fig. 5 distributor gear shows;

Figure 11 is the expansion view shows of the sheet material transfer device of Figure 10;

Figure 12 is the local side view shows of Fig. 5 distributor gear;

Figure 13 is that the fragmentary, perspective view of Figure 12 distributor gear shows;

Figure 14 along straight line 14-14, showed the side cross-sectional views of the embodiment that sheet material detector being used for Fig. 5 distributor gear is arranged;

Figure 15 is the local side view shows that is used for another embodiment that articles of sheet material sensing of Fig. 5 distributor gear arranges;

Figure 16 is the local side view shows that is used for another embodiment that sheet material sensing of Fig. 5 distributor gear arranges;

Figure 17 is the local side view shows that is used for another embodiment that sheet material sensing of Fig. 5 distributor gear arranges;

Figure 18 is that the fragmentary, perspective view that is used for another embodiment that the sheet material sensing of Fig. 5 distributor gear arranges shows;

Figure 19 is used for of Fig. 5 distributor gear to pass on the fragmentary, perspective view of bar assembly and show;

Figure 20 be 19 pass on the bar assembly fragmentary, perspective view show;

Figure 21 be 19 pass on the bar assembly the expansion view shows;

Figure 22 is used for Figure 19 to pass on the perspective view shows of exemplary cam of bar assembly;

Figure 23 is used for the lateral plan of partial cross section that passes on bar assembly Fig. 5 distributor gear, another embodiment;

Figure 24 is the lateral plan in Figure 23 passes on the partial cross section of bar assembly;

Figure 25 is that Figure 23 passes on the side plan view in the partial cross section of bar assembly; And

Figure 26 is that the flow chart of a kind of method of operation sheet product dispenser is showed.

Specify

Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 has showed the exemplary of a sheet product dispenser 20.Sheet product dispenser 20 comprises a protecgulum 22 and a backboard 24, and this backboard is arranged to and keeps and distribute a kind of articles of sheet material 26.Term used herein " articles of sheet material " comprises the natural and/or synthetic cloth or the sheet material of paper.Articles of sheet material can also comprise weaving and nonwoven article.Having diversified non-textile technology and they can be wet-laying or dry-laying.That some instances comprise is water acupuncture manipulation (it is non-woven to be sometimes referred to as the water acupuncture manipulation), DRC (dual become crape), air lay, spunbond again, combed, paper handkerchief and melt-blown non-woven articles of sheet material.In addition, articles of sheet material can comprise can be from the fibrous cellulosic materials of natural origin acquisition, and like wood pulp cellulose, and other are characterized as the fibrous material with the hydroxyl on the polymer backbone of being attached at.These comprise glass fibre and with the synthetic fibers of hydroxyl modification.The instance of other articles of sheet material includes but not limited to wiper blade, napkin, paper handkerchief, paper roll, towel or other fibers, film, polymer or silk property product.

Generally speaking, articles of sheet material is compared with its length and width and is approached, and demonstrates flat relatively configuration, and is flexible so that allow to fold, roll volume, pile up or the like.Articles of sheet material 26 can have at many and traverses a plurality of perforation of extending in the straight line of its width, so that separate independent a plurality of sheet materials and be convenient to independent a plurality of sheet materials is separated or tear fracture from volume with different intervals.Independent a plurality of sheet materials can be confirmed as the size of hope, so that cooperate many purposes of this articles of sheet material.For example, can be whenever form perforation line at a distance from 13 inches, so that limit the unified sheet material of a kind of size.Many perforation lines can be provided, so that allow the user to select the size of sheet material according to real needs.

Sheet product dispenser 20 can comprise the part 28 of an increase, and the part of this increase is that the articles of sheet material 26 of a whole volume provides the space in the inside of sheet product dispenser 20.Protecgulum 22 can be to be processed by low price and any suitable material that meets the application's environmental requirement, like a kind of plastics.In this exemplary, protecgulum 22 can be opaque, and is translucent or painted.If protecgulum 22 is translucent, it just can provide advantage to be to allow the attendant to confirm the amount of remaining articles of sheet material 26 in the sheet product dispenser 20 apace.In one embodiment, sheet product dispenser 20 is water waterproof or anti-, and this has allowed sheet product dispenser to use in for example as food processing apparatus at the environment of humidity.

The size that the general shape of sheet product dispenser 20 is arranged to sheet product dispenser 20 drops to minimum, and protecgulum 22 comprises a part 30 of distortion gradually.This part of being out of shape gradually 30 is positioned at distributes near the line of rabbet joint 32.This mode of distortion has gradually reduced the internal capacity of the bottom of sheet product dispenser 20.Sheet product dispenser can comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LED) 34, so that the vision indication that divides the state of product orchestration about sheet material is provided.A proximity sensor 36 also is positioned near near the protecgulum 22 that distributes the line of rabbet joint 32.This proximity sensor 36 can be any right sensors that can sense user's hand of present sheet product dispenser 20 fronts, for example as an infrared sensor.

The schematically illustrating of critical piece of sheet product dispenser 20 has been shown among Fig. 3.Be understood that the displaying among Fig. 3 only is for illustrative purposes, and the relative size of these corresponding components can be different with the position.This sheet product dispenser 20 comprises a master controller 38.As will illustrate in greater detail this master controller 38 provides employed logic in the operating process of sheet product dispenser 20 functional with control in that this carried out.Alternately, the functional of this master controller 38 can be assigned to the several Control device, this several Control device each all will be more limited functional each discrete parts that is provided to the operation of sheet product dispenser 20.Master controller 38 is connected on the distributor gear 40, so that when the person of being used activates, distribute an articles of sheet material 26.A motor 42 and an optional transmission component 44 drive this distributor gear 40.This optional transmission component 44 (for example as a gearbox) is adaptive with the rotation output of motor 42 in order to distribute articles of sheet material 26.

In this exemplary, the electric energy that is used to operate sheet product dispenser 20 is provided by a battery pack 46, and this battery pack can comprise a plurality of batteries that a battery or serial or parallel connection ground are arranged, so that the energy of hope is provided.Minimum for maintenance cost is dropped to, the value of energy stored should allow to distribute at least 48,000 foot articles of sheet material.In this exemplary, battery pack 46 comprises " D " battery of four 1.5 volts.Battery pack 46 is connected on the master controller 38 through an optional power converter 48, and this optional power converter adapts to these sheet product dispenser 20 desirable electric power outputs of operation with the electric power output of battery pack 46.This optional power converter 48 also can receive the input from external power, and for example, alternating current (" AC ") power supply 50, or sun-generated electric power can be any other suitable substitute electric powers for a kind of application perhaps.This AC power supplies 50 can be the power supply of any routine, for example as a 120V, the wall power sockets of 60Hz.

Master controller 38 is can accept data and instruction, carry out these instructions so that handle these data and present its result's a kind of suitable electronic installation.Master controller 38 can through a user interface or through other devices (such as but not limited to a proximity sensor, sound actuating device, can manually operated selection and transmitter control device, radiation wavelength and electronics or electric) accept instruction.Therefore; Master controller 38 can be but be not limited to microprocessor, microcomputer, minicom, optical computer, board type computer, CISC; ASIC (special IC), Reduced Instruction Set Computer, simulation computer, digital computer, molecular computer, quantum computer, cellular computer, solid-state computer, single board computer, buffer computer; Computer network, desktop PC; Laptop computer, PDA(Personal Digital Assistant) or any above combination.

The voltage or the levels of current of the simulation that master controller 38 can provide sensor (for example as proximity sensor 36) convert a data signal to, and user of this signal indicating is just with the front of its hand placement at sheet product dispenser 20.Alternately; Proximity sensor 36 can be configured to provide data signal a to master controller 38; Perhaps the converter 52 of an analog to digital (A/D) can be connected between proximity sensor 36 and the master controller 38, so that this analog signal conversion that proximity sensor 36 is provided becomes to be used for by a data signal of master controller 38 processing.Master controller 38 is used for the input of these data signals as various process sheet product dispenser 20 is controlled.These digital signal representations one or more data of sheet product dispenser 20, include but not limited to the exhausting of actuating, residue volume of proximity sensor, actuating, motor current, motor back emf, battery levels and type likelihood data of tear fracture bar.It should be understood that in some embodiments master controller 38 can be arranged to also comprise one or more directly analog input, so that replace data signal or except data signal and receive one or more analog signals.

Master controller 38 operationally is connected with one or more parts of sheet product dispenser 20 through data transmission medium 54.Data transmission medium 54 includes but not limited to solid electric wire, twisted-pair feeder, coaxial cable and fiber optic cable.Data transmission medium 54 also includes but not limited to wireless, wireless and ultrared signal transmission system.Master controller 38 is configured to provide operation signal to arrive these parts and receives data through data transmission medium 54 from these parts.Master controller 38 uses a kind of computer communication protocol of knowing (like interior integrated circuit (I2C), SPI (SPI), System Management Bus (SMBus), transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP), RS-232, ModBus or any other communications protocol that are fit to purpose disclosed here) and transmission on data transmission medium 54.

To specify as following, master controller 38 is from for example accepting data as a plurality of sensors of residue volume sensor 56 and the multiple arrangement of like motor 42 and electromechanical actuator 58.Master controller 38 also provides some instruction from an executable instruction set and is used for rolling up the data of sensor 56 and the purpose that predetermined operating parameters compares from residue.Master controller 38 offers a plurality of operation signals to passing on the electromechanical actuator 58 that bar 60 activates.

Master controller 38 comprises a processor 62, and this processor is connected on a random-access memory (ram) device 64, nonvolatile memory (NVM) 66 and read-only storages of device (ROM) device 68.Master controller 38 can randomly be connected on one or more I/O (I/O) controller or the DIU data interface unit (not shown).NVM device 66 is any type of nonvolatile memories, like an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory EPROM) chip, a flash chip, and disc driver or analog.Be stored in the NVM device 66 is the different operating parameter of application code.Be appreciated that application code can be stored in the NVM device 66 rather than in ROM device 68.

Master controller 38 has comprised the multiple method of controlling operation thereof of in application code, implementing.These methods are implemented as among the computer instruction that is processed device 62 execution and writes, and typically are the forms with software.This software can be encoded with any language, includes but not limited to the combination in any of one of machine language, assembler language, VHDL (Verilog hardware description language), VHSIC HDL (ultrahigh speed IC hardware description language), Fortran (formula translation), C, C++, Visual C++, Java, ALGOL (algorithmic language), BASIC (the symbolic instruction sign indicating number that the beginner is general), visual BASIC, ActiveX, HTML (HTML) and above-mentioned at least language or derives.In addition, the operator can use an existing software application program (like electrical form or database) and make a plurality of different cells be associated with these variablees of being enumerated in algorithm.In addition, this software can be the form of integrated software (for example with) that is independent of other softwares or depends on other softwares.

Referring now to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4,, distributor gear 40 comprises that is further passed on a bar 60, and this passes on bar and is activated by an electromechanical actuator 58.Pass on bar 60 action so that will move to a second place from a primary importance in the end portion of the articles of sheet material on the master file 72 26, engage and can be assigned with afterwards with these windings up roller in the winding up roller assembly 74 in this end portion of second place place.In this exemplary, electromechanical actuator 58 is motor, and this motor is connected on the arm through a cam.When this motor rotated, this arm moved between a primary importance and a second place owing to the profile variations on this cam.In another embodiment (Figure 23 to Figure 25), electromechanical actuator 58 is solenoids, and core body and that this solenoid has a coiling coil is plunger movably.This plunger is in response to the core body energising is moved.In case, can use a spring or other similar devices that plunger is turned back to its original position to the core body outage.This core body is electrically connected on this master controller 38.To specify as following, master controller 38 is in response to receiving from signal of residue volume sensor 56 and making electromechanical actuator 58 energisings.

Though it should be understood that the electromechanical actuator of this disclosure content discussion is to have an arm or plunger that moves with linear mode, also can uses the electromechanical actuator of other types and do not break away from the scope of embodiment of the present invention.Electromechanical actuator 58 can be for example rotary solenoid, a kind of memory shape metal alloy, an electromagnet, perhaps a kind of piezo-electric device.

In this exemplary, this distributor gear 40 also comprises at least two articles of

sheet material

70,72, and these articles of sheet material are installed on a plurality of volumes or on core memory thing (core stock).The attendant manually loads this sheet product dispenser 20 again, and articles of sheet material 70 is positioned within the part 30 of bottom or distortion gradually.This articles of sheet material 70 is commonly referred to as " residue volume ", because it only comprises the part of the articles of sheet material of a new/full volume usually.Because residue volume 70 has less articles of sheet material, so it can be installed among the bottom of this sheet product dispenser 20.Residue volume 70 is delivered to a winding up roller assembly 74 with articles of sheet material, and this winding up roller assembly comprises a pair of winding up roller, and these windings up roller spur this articles of sheet material when being activated by motor 42.A tear fracture bar assembly 76 is positioned in and distributes near the line of rabbet joint 32, so that be provided for a kind of device of this articles of sheet material 26 from 70 separation of residue volume.

A residue volume sensor 56 is positioned near the winding up roller assembly 74.Like what will specify at this, residue volume sensor 56 provides a signal to master controller 38, and whether articles of sheet material still just is assigned with from residue volume 70 this signal indicating.It should be understood that to avoiding waste and relevant increase cost, hope be the articles of sheet material that uses as much as possible on the residue volume 70.Provide a residue volume sensor 56 so that this arrangement that monitoring articles of sheet material 26 distributes provides multiple advantages; Be that this arrangement can make the sheet product dispenser 20 can; Before switching to master file 72, use all or nearly all articles of sheet material on the residue volume 70.This arrangement provides other advantage, is that it makes any gap or overlapping minimum or elimination when distributing articles of sheet material 26.Though it should be understood that residue volume sensor 56 in this side of sending into that is described to be positioned in these windings up roller in the winding up roller assembly 74, this sensor also can be positioned in the side of seeing off of these windings up roller.

At winding up roller assembly 74 also or after master file 72 these articles of sheet material of pulling, this articles of sheet material 26 is advanced towards tear fracture bar assembly 76 from residue volume 70.This tear fracture bar assembly 76 is positioned in and distributes near the line of rabbet joint 32.In case the device that has distributed 26, one of an amount of articles of sheet material to be used for cutting blade section product 26 just is included among the tear fracture bar assembly 76.Typically, this is that a jagged edges that when the user spurs the articles of sheet material 26 of distribution, is cut in the sheet material through use is realized.The user just can use on demand or abandon from this articles of sheet material 26 of residue volume 70 or master file 72 separation then.

The operation of sheet product dispenser 20 can be considered a series of assignment period as shown in Figure 4.When proximity sensor 36 after time t0 for example activates, a signal is sent to master controller 38 from sensor 36.Master controller 38 is carried out a plurality of instructions in response to this signal, and carry out one or more the many cases journey so as to launch motor 42 (time=t2).Motor 42 rotate then one of these windings up roller in the winding up roller assembly 74 (time=t3).The rotation of winding up roller causes articles of sheet material 26 by from 70 pullings of residue volume, up to the articles of sheet material 26 of desired amount from sheet product dispenser 20 distribute 79 (time=t5).Articles of sheet material 26 separates with residue volume 70 through a tear fracture bar assembly 76.

In the assignment period process, possible is that the articles of sheet material 26 that contains on the residue volume 70 will be consumed or exhaust.As discussed above, residue volume sensor 56 be arranged to articles of sheet material 26 winding up roller assembly 74 send into or the existence of unloading part office detects.In case residue volume sensor 56 do not detect from the articles of sheet material 26 of residue volume 70 (time=t0), sheet product dispenser 20 just gets into one and passes on the cycle 80, and is as shown in Figure 4.In the cycles of passing on 80 process, signal be sent to from residue volume sensor 56 master controller 38 (time=t1).Master controller 38 is in response to rolling up this signal of sensor 56 and carry out a plurality of instructions so that make electromechanical actuator 58 energisings from residue.The actuating of electromechanical actuator 58 causes that passing on bar 60 moves to the second place that this edge engages with winding up roller assembly 74 (time=t3 to t4) with the edge of the articles of sheet material 26 of master file 72 from a primary importance.In case the edge of master file 72 is engaged, master controller 38 is just launched motor 42 so that drive this winding up roller assembly 74.Motor 42 moves one section desired time, typically is enough to distribute the articles of sheet material 26 (for example 12 inches) of 79 1 scheduled volumes during this period of time, has been engaged with in the winding up roller assembly 74 so that guarantee the articles of sheet material 26 of master file 72.The electromechanical actuator 58 and the bar 60 that passes on are moved back into this primary importance then, load sheet product dispenser 20 once more in order to the maintenance personal.

It should be understood that said sequence 78,80 can take place simultaneously, in this case, for example the user activates proximity sensor 36, and residue volume 70 has been consumed.Alternately, residue volume 70 can be by delustring in the process of assignment period 78, and sheet product dispenser 20 switches to the cycle of passing on 80, so that allow the articles of sheet material 26 of q.s to be assigned with.

An exemplary distributor gear 40 has been shown in Fig. 5 to Fig. 8 figure.In this embodiment, distributor gear 40 comprises a underframe 82, and this underframe is configured to be connected on the backboard 24.Underframe 82 comprises a pair of winding up

roller carriage

84,86, and they comprise a protuberance 88 separately, and the size of this protuberance is confirmed as the master file core that holds articles of sheet material 72.Underframe 82 also comprises a recessed zone 90, and the size in this recessed zone is confirmed as with a residue volume (not shown) and matches.Winding up roller assembly 74 is positioned in the underframe 82 between proximity sensor 36 and the battery container 92.As discussed above, winding up roller assembly 74 is passed to the distribution line of rabbet joint 32 so that the user can obtain articles of sheet material 26 with articles of sheet material 26 from main sheet product volume 72 or residue volume 70.Like what will at length explain at this, distributor gear 40 comprises that also 92, one of drive motor assemblies pass on bar assembly 94 and a sheet length assembly 96.

Proximity sensor 36 makes sheet product dispenser 20 begin operation.Alternately, in the embodiment with " mode of suspension " operation, this operation is that the actuating through the tear fracture bar begins.In this exemplary, proximity sensor 36 is integrated with master controller 38.Master controller 38 is between a front cover 98 and winding up roller assembly 74.Proximity sensor 36 comprises an optical transmitting set 100 and a receiver 102.Covered this photophore 100 and receiver 102 with the lens 103 that front cover 98 flushes basically.Photophore 100 is isolated with receiver 102 on master controller 38, and on an angle with respect to the place ahead of sheet product dispenser 20, is directed.Photophore 100 transmits the optical signal (for example as infrared ray) of a bunchy, thereby this Shu Guang stretches out and on an angle 104, formed a transmitter cone 108 shown in 8 figure.Similarly, receiver 102 is that a plurality of signals that are received from a direction are made response, thereby this direction stretches out and on angle 106, formed a receiver cone 110.The overlapping polygonal region 112 that produces four limits of transmitter cone 108 and receiver cone 110, on behalf of the user, this polygonal region can place their hand so that make the zone that sheet product dispenser 20 is launched.It should be understood that said polygon represented for triggering this distributor and have the zone of high likelihood.Beyond polygonal region 112 but still with these cones 108, though one of 110 a plurality of zones together still can cause triggering this distributor, with regional 112 to compare these zones more unreliable or more inconsistent.

It should be understood that 112 position, zone will influence work and the user of sheet product dispenser 20 impression to this sheet product dispenser.Sheet product dispenser 20 need be operated like a cork even as big as allowing the user in zone 112, and does not make the maximum distance " D " in zone 112 extend too away from sheet product dispenser 20.Though a big zone hopes that if this distance " D " becomes excessive, the people of process just may all of a sudden distribute articles of sheet material 26 so from the side.In addition, this zone 112 is big more, and proximity sensor 36 will be used more dormancy electric power, thereby reduce the life-span of battery.In this exemplary, photophore 100 and receiver 102 be separated one 3 inches (7.62 centimetres) distance " W ", separate one and spend to the angle of 80 degree from 10.Produced a polygonal region 112 of ultimate range " D " like this with 3 inches.The advantage of this arrangement is that it has formed a zone 102, and this zone is enough big for the user, enough reliable and enough make things convenient for, and meanwhile the requirement of dormancy electric power is remained below or equals 25% of annual battery use amount.

Referring now to Fig. 9 to Figure 11,, will describe drive motor assembly 92.As discussed above, when the user activated proximity sensor 36 (Fig. 2), a signal was sent to master controller 38 (Fig. 2), and master controller is launched drive motor assembly 92 (Fig. 6) so that distribute articles of sheet material 26.Drive motor assembly 92 comprises a motor 114, and this motor is connected on the underframe 82 through a flange 116.A separator 118 is arranged between motor 114 and the underframe 82.In this exemplary, this separator is a kind of polymer based on rubber, for example as the butadiene that has in the hardness Shore A level scope.This separator provides the effect that stops to arrive in a underframe 82 and the protecgulum 22 (Fig. 1) with the vibration transmission that prevents motor.Motor 114 comprises an axle 120, and this extends through an opening in underframe 82.A belt pulley 122 is installed on the axle 120.In this exemplary, belt pulley 122 comprises that size is confirmed as a plurality of teeth that receive a toothed belt.

Winding up roller assembly 74 (Fig. 7) comprises a clamping winding up roller assembly 124 and a driving winding up roller assembly 126.Winding up roller assembly 124,126 is pivotally connected on the side plate 128,130 separately, and this side plate preface successively is installed on the underframe 82.Driving winding up roller assembly 126 rotates around an axle 132.Belt pulley 134 is installed to the end of axle 132 near motor 114.This belt pulley drives flange 136 through one and is fastened on the axle 132.

Article one, belt 138 has connected these belt pulleys 122,134.In this exemplary, belt 138 is the belts that tooth is arranged.The tooth on the belt 138 have be suitable for belt pulley 122,134 on the tooth size and the tooth pitch that are meshed.In this exemplary, belt 138 is to be processed by suitable material, includes but not limited to: neoprene, polyurethane, rubber; And carbamate; And the strengthening material that is adopted includes but not limited to: fully aromatic polyamide fiber, glass, metallic fiber; Other polymer fibers, perhaps other reinforcing fiber.The combination of belt 138 and separator 118 provides multiple advantages and has exceeded these prior art systems of between motor 114 and driving winding up roller assembly 126, using direct gear to arrange.Though these gear trains provide bigger efficient from motor 114 to the transmission that drives winding up roller assembly 126 at energy, recoil in this arrangement and vibration have produced makes us undesirable noise.Noise is passed in the housing of this distributor, and for example as protecgulum 22, this has played the effect of amplifier.Through using a separator 118 and a belt, vibration drops to minimum from the transmission of motor 114, thereby has little or no sound and send from sheet product dispenser 20.

It should be understood that what can hope is when operating sheet product dispenser 20 at every turn, provides the consistent articles of sheet material of measuring 26 to the user.In order to measure the amount of the articles of sheet material 26 that is being assigned with, distributor gear 40 comprises a sheet length assembly 96 shown in Figure 12 to Figure 13.Sheet length assembly 96 is arranged at and drives near the winding up roller assembly 126, and is relative with drive motor assembly 92.Sheet length assembly 96 comprises a switch 140 of being installed on the side plate 128.Switch 140 comprises a Switch main body 141 and an arm 142, and this arm has a first 144, and this first extends to a contact portion 146 with curved surfaces.Extend from contact portion 146, arm 140 comprises a second portion 148.In this exemplary, second portion 148 is perpendicular to first 144 basically.

Contact portion 146 engages with a cam 150 with a plurality of protrusions 152.Cam 150 is connected to drive on the winding up roller axle 132 and be arranged to and rotates with driving winding up roller assembly 126.In this exemplary, cam 150 has four protrusions 152.These protrusions 152 comprise a first surface 158 and a second surface 160 separately.In the process of normal running, drive winding up roller assembly 126 and on by arrow 162 indicated directions, rotate.When cam 150 rotated with driving winding up roller assembly 126, the contact portion 146 of switch arm 142 engaged with first surface 158, and towards Switch main body 141 displacements.When arm 142 displacements, first 144 activates a switching mechanism (not shown), thereby forms a loop so that produce a signal.In this exemplary, this signal is before contact portion 146 is touched the intersection point 164 of first surface 158 and second surface 160, to produce soon or before this.Switch 140 is electrically connected so that this signal is sent to master controller 38.So the number of times that master controller 38 can signal calculated is so that confirm to drive the rotation number of turns of winding up roller assembly 126, and therefore calculate the paper amount of distribution.After the articles of sheet material 26 of appropriate amount had been assigned with, master controller 38 was removed and is launched this drive motor 114, and this makes the distribution of articles of sheet material 26 stop.

Drive winding up roller assembly 126 be with the indicated direction in the opposite direction of arrow 162 under the situation of rotating; If for example as the maintenance personal articles of sheet material 26 is pulled out from driving winding up roller assembly 126 and clamping between the winding up roller assembly 124, then the second portion 148 of this arm forms with the second surface 160 of this cam and contacts.The angle of second surface 160 is confirmed as and allows second portion 148 that second portion 160 is upwards slided to engage with second surface 160 until contact portion 146.When continuing counter-rotation, contact portion 146 is crossed intersection point 164.The angle of second surface 160, the second portion 148 of arm and contact portion 146 coact and can not damage switch 140 so that allow cam 150 counter-rotatings.

As discussed above, in typical operating process, articles of sheet material 26 at first is assigned with from residue volume 70.In this exemplary, residue volume 70 is placed in the bottom of sheet product dispenser 20, for example as, in recessed zone 90.The leading edge of articles of sheet material 26 is placed on and drives winding up roller assembly 126 and clamp the position that winding up roller assembly 124 crosses, and this position is commonly referred to as " jaw ".After a period of time, the articles of sheet material 26 in residue volume 70 will be exhausted.To go through as following; Distributor gear 40 comprises that is passed on a bar assembly 94; This passes on the bar assembly articles of sheet material 26 is moved to this jaw from master file 72, thereby allows to drive winding up roller assembly 126 and entrainment roll assembly 124 from main sheet product volume 72 pulling articles of sheet material 26.

It should be understood that undesirable is owing to exhausting of residue volume 70 makes that articles of sheet material 26 can not supply to use.In order to confirm when residue volume 70 is exhausted, and distributor gear 40 has comprised a sensor, and this sensor is to detecting in the path that has articles of sheet material 26 process when being assigned with.An illustrative sensors arrangement 164 is illustrated among Figure 14.In this embodiment, an optical sensor with an optical transmitting set 166 is arranged to a branch of light is transmitted on the optical receiver 168, and this optical receiver is positioned at a zone 170 under the winding up roller assembly 124,126.Zone 170 is in the path of articles of sheet material 26 process in assigning process.When articles of sheet material 26 (as from residue volume 70) when existing, articles of sheet material 26 has just stopped the light that is being received by optical receiver 168.Therefore, in case residue volume 70 is exhausted, optical receiver 168 detects the light from optical transmitting set 166, and a signal is sent on the master controller 38.

Another embodiment that articles of sheet material 26 exhausts sensor is illustrated among 15 figure.In this embodiment, sensor is an optical sensor, and for example infrared detector 172.An infrared detector 172 comprises a transmitter 174 and a receiver 176.Detector 172 is positioned in to sending near the winding up roller assembly 126, and wherein transmitter 174 is oriented to infrared guldance towards driving winding up roller assembly 126.In one embodiment, this detector is positioned in and drives between winding up roller assembly 126 and the protecgulum 22, makes this light be radiated on the position of the three that drives winding up roller assembly 126 like this, indicates like arrow 179,180 among 15 figure.Drive winding up roller assembly 126 and processed by a kind of black or other dark material, this material reduces or eliminates the reflection of light to transmitter 174 emissions.Alternately, drive winding up roller assembly 126 and can have a not surface of the light of reflected infrared ray wavelength, perhaps in this lip-deep coating.This type coating can be aluminium oxide (Al for example ₂O ₃), aluminium oxide-titanium oxide mixture (Al ₂O ₃-TiO), chromium oxide-alumina mixture, tungsten-cobalt carbide mixture (WC/Co), silver bromide, or silver chlorate.It should be understood that and also can use the photodetector of the different wave length that utilizes light and do not depart from the scope of the present invention.

Reduce or eliminate the existence of articles of sheet material 26 that to guarantee to get into the jaw of winding up roller assembly 124,126 to the reflection of light of detector 172 emission.Therefore, when articles of sheet material 26 exists, the light of emission will reflected back receiver 176 on, thereby show that to master controller 38 residue volume 70 is still distributing articles of sheet material 26.On the contrary, when not having articles of sheet material 26, for example when residue volume 70 is exhausted, receiver 176 will can not receive the light reflection, and a signal will be sent on the master controller 38.Though should also be understood that infrared detector 172 is to be shown as two independent parts, detector 172 also can be manufactured into a single integrating device.

The sensor of an alternative arrangement embodiment is illustrated among Figure 16.In this embodiment, similar with the embodiment shown in Figure 14, a light transmission 178 is positioned in a side in articles of sheet material 26 paths.Transmitter 178 is arranged to light (for example as infrared light) transmission is striden across articles of sheet material 26 paths (shown in arrow 180) to a receiver 182 of relatively locating with transmitter 178.Roll up 70 when distributing articles of sheet material 26 when residue, articles of sheet material 26 has stopped the path of infrared light.There is not light to show in the residue volume that articles of sheet material 26 is still arranged to master controller 38 at receiver 182 places.In case receiver 182 receives light, a signal just is sent on this master controller, and the bar assembly 94 that passes on activated, thereby causes the articles of sheet material 26 from master file to be assigned with.

Another sensor embodiment is illustrated among Figure 17.In this embodiment, a switch 184 is used to show the existence from the articles of sheet material 26 of residue volume 70.Switch 184 comprises a body 186, and this body part comprises a mechanical switch that forms and break off the electric contact of a circuit.An arm 188 extends from body 186.Arm 188 has first and second positions, and is arranged to work as an indicator, makes that like this arm 188 is in a primary importance when articles of sheet material 26 gets into jaws from remaining volume 70.When articles of sheet material 26 no longer exists (for example when residue volume 70 is exhausted), arm 188 moves to a second place.Typically, when in primary importance, arm 188 is applied tension force in advance by a plunger (not shown), and this plunger is a part of the mechanical switch in the body 186.This mobile meeting to the second place transmits a signal to master controller 38, and this signal indicating residue volume 70 has been exhausted.

It should be understood that; The position that is illustrated in the illustrated this sensor of this embodiment among Figure 14 to Figure 17 can be positioned in the sheet product dispenser 20 Anywhere, can detect existing articles of sheet material 26 to get into jaws from residue volume 70 at these local these sensors.For example, optical transmitting set 166 can be positioned in Anywhere with optical receiver 168, can tackle near the articles of sheet material path of main sheet product volume 72 driving winding up roller assembly 126 from the light of optical transmitting set 166 in these places.The position of the sensor shown in Figure 14 to Figure 17 is exemplary, and is not to be intended to restriction.

The sensor of another alternate embodiment is illustrated among Figure 18.In this embodiment, one first conducting ring 190 is installed in and drives on the winding up roller assembly 126.First conducting ring 190 can be installed to through any suitable device and be driven on the winding up roller assembly 126, and these devices include but not limited to for example as pressure fitted or bonding.First conducting ring 190 can be processed by any suitable material, includes but not limited to metal, like copper, and aluminium, silver-colored or golden.First conducting ring 190 can also be processed by a kind of polymer of conduction, such as but not limited to the polyacetylene class, polyacetylene, polypyrrole, polyaniline, melanin of conduction, or other polymer resins of soaking into carbon dust or fiber.First conducting ring 190 also can be processed by the lower material of a kind of electric conductivity (like nickel), and is electroplate with a kind of more material (for example above-mentioned metal or conductive plastics) of conduction.First conducting ring 190 is for example as being electrically connected on the master controller 38 through a slip ring 192.Slip ring 192 is electromechanical assemblies, and this electromechanical assembly allows will be transferred on the static device (for example master controller 38) from the power and the signal of telecommunication of the device (for example driving winding up roller assembly 126) of a rotation under the situation of not using electric wire.First conducting ring 190 also can be through for example being connected on the master controller 38 as the electric connection that rotates, current-collector, electric change or brush and commutator.

One second conducting ring 194 is installed to and is clamped on the winding up roller assembly 124, and is electrically connected on the master controller 38 through for example slip ring 196.Second conducting ring 194 can be installed to through any suitable device and be clamped on the winding up roller assembly 124, for example includes but not limited to pressure fitted or bonding.First conducting ring 190 and second conducting ring 194 are arranged on its corresponding winding up roller 126,124 so that when having articles of sheet material 26 to be positioned in the winding up roller 126,124, be not in contact with one another.When first conducting ring 190 and second conducting ring 194 form when contact, a circuit is switched on, thereby the permission electric current flows to second conducting ring 194 from first conducting ring 190.This articles of sheet material 26 that is illustrated on the residue volume 70 for master controller 38 that flows of electric current is exhausted.When articles of sheet material 26 exists, this articles of sheet material will come disconnecting circuit as separator, and prevent that electric current from flowing.Because master controller 38 is flowing of current sensor only, this embodiment may be implemented as need extremely low electrical power so that avoid exhausting the battery 46 of sheet product dispenser.

In case a signal is transferred into master controller 38; This controller just activates one and passes on bar assembly 94; This passes on the bar assembly leading edge of main sheet product volume 72 is moved in the jaw, makes that like this rolling up 72 articles of sheet material 26 from the main sheet product is spurred by winding up roller assembly 74.The exemplary bar assembly 94 that passes on is illustrated among Figure 13 and Figure 19 to Figure 22.The bar assembly 94 that passes on comprises that is passed on a bar 198, and this passes on bar and traverses the width of distributor gear 40 basically and extend.The bar 198 that passes on comprises a pair of arm 202,204, and this comprises separately arm and is connected to a pivot 200 on the underframe 82 with passing on bar 198.The bar 198 that passes on is movably so that articles of sheet material 26 is engaged with winding up roller assembly 74 between a primary importance (Figure 14) and a second place (Figure 13).

The lever arm 202 that passes on comprises a line of rabbet joint 206, and the size of this line of rabbet joint is confirmed as the contact pin part 208 that receives a cam arm 210.In this exemplary, contact pin part 208 through a kind of be clasped cam arm 210 is connected to pass on the bar 198.Cam arm 210 is arranged in the opening 212 in the underframe 82.When cam arm 210 passes on bar when this primary importance (Figure 14) moves to this second place (Figure 13) with this, opening 212 makes the motion of cam arm 210 keep straight.Cam arm 210 comprises an opening 214, and the size of this opening is confirmed as an end-rings that receives spring 216.The end opposite of spring 216 is connected on the pivot pin 218 on the underframe 82.Spring 216 makes cam arm 210 biasings, makes that like this a contact surface 220 and the cam 222 on cam arm 210 keeps in touch.

Cam 222 is connected on the underframe 82 so that rotate.Cam 222 comprises a protuberance 224, has a cam face 226 on this protuberance.Cam face 226 has a kind of profile, this contour limit moving of cam arm opening 214.On a side opposite with protuberance 224, cam 222 comprises a gear parts 228.In this exemplary, cam 222 also comprises one first protuberance 230 and one second protuberance 232, and this second protuberance is arranged near the gear parts 228 and from this gear part office radial outward arrangement.In this exemplary, protuberance 230,232 is arranged to 180 degree and separates.To at length discuss as following, a plurality of contact pin 240,242 cooperations on these protuberances 230,232 and the underframe 82 are so that provide a mandatory stop member for the motion of cam 222.

Gear parts 228 comprises a plurality of teeth, and the size of these teeth and tooth pitch are suitable for engaging a pinion 234.Pinion 234 is installed on the axle 236 of motor 238.Motor 238 is installed to the inside of underframe 82 through a suitable securing member, and the opening that extends through in the underframe 82 of axle 236.

In operating process, when master controller 38 definite articles of sheet material 26 from residue volume 70 had been exhausted, master controller 38 was just launched motor 238.Motor 238 rotation pinions 234 and come rotating cam 222 through gear parts 228.Because the profile of cam face 226, cam arm 210 slides from a primary importance in the line of rabbet joint 206 linearly, and at this primary importance place, the bar 198 that passes on is to be in respect on the angle at the top of underframe 82 (Figure 14).When motor 238 rotated, cam arm 210 slided towards cam 222, passed on bar 198 and turned to basically the second place (Figure 14) with the top coplane of underframe 82 around this pivot 200 thereby cause.In this position, these protuberances 230,232 of cam 222 engage with these contact pin 240,242.Because these contact pin the 240, the 242nd are fixed, thereby the stop motion of gear parts 228 makes motor 238 get in a kind of stall situation.Master controller 38 is through for example detecting this stall situation as the increase of motor 238 current drains.In one embodiment, when detecting this stall situation, master controller 38 just makes the rotation direction reversed of motor 238.In another embodiment, after detecting this stall situation, master controller 238 is removed and is launched this motor 238.

As discussed above, in the time of in being in this second place, the bar 198 that passes on causes the articles of sheet material 26 from main sheet product volume 72 to engage with winding up roller assembly 74.So master controller 38 is launched this drive motor assembly 92, drive 126 rotations of winding up roller assembly thereby cause.Articles of sheet material 26 is pulled through jaw and gets in the distributing trough seam 32.In case the articles of sheet material 26 of q.s has been assigned with through distributing the line of rabbet joint 32, this drive motor assembly 92 just is disengaged to be launched.It should be understood that in case engage with winding up roller assembly 74 from the articles of sheet material 26 of main sheet product volume 72, this sensor (for example optical transmitting set 166 and optical receiver 168) will detect the existence of articles of sheet material 26.

The bar assembly 244 that passes on of another embodiment is illustrated among Figure 23 to Figure 25.In this embodiment, main sheet product volume 72 comprises a preceding limb part 246, and this preceding limb partly is positioned in one and passes near the bar 248.The bar 248 that passes on comprises a body part 250, and this body part is connected on this removable plunger 252 on the electromechanical actuator 254.In this embodiment, electromechanical actuator 254 is solenoids.An arm portion 256 is from passing on the contiguous winding up roller assembly 126 that drives of bar body part 250 extensions.Arm 256 is arranged essentially parallel to this and drives winding up roller assembly 126 and laterally extend and traverse this sheet product dispenser 20 the place aheads, so that engage with the preceding limb 246 of this master file.

In the initial operation process after sheet product dispenser 20 maintenances, when proximity sensor 36 activated, these winding up roller assembly 124,126 pullings were from the articles of sheet material 26 of residue volume 70.When the articles of sheet material that contains on the residue volume 70 26 is exhausted or when exhausting, sensor 166,168 transmits a signal to master controller 38.In response to this signal from sensor, master controller 38 is launched electromechanical actuator 254, causes plunger 252 to move (under the influence in the magnetic field that actuator core body (not shown) produces).Plunger 252 this moves to cause and passes on bar 248 and pivot.Cause passed on bar 248 pivoting action causes arm parts 256 closed or reduced in the preceding limb 246 of articles of sheet material 26 and these winding up roller assemblies 124, gap between 126.

When this gap was reduced, preceding limb 246 formed with driving winding up roller assembly 126 and contacts.The frictional force that between preceding limb 246 and driving winding up roller assembly 126, causes is drawn in preceding limb 246 in winding up roller assembly 124, the jaw between 126.Therefore, this move of bar 248 of passing on caused, and replaced this residue volume 70, distributed from sheet product dispenser 20 from the articles of sheet material 26 of main sheet product volume 72.

In this exemplary, in case exhausted from the articles of sheet material 26 of residue volume 70, sensor 166,168 just transmits sensor signal.This utilization of maximum that has just allowed articles of sheet material 26 is so that make expense minimum.Yet in some embodiments, some between possibly also hoping to allow to distribute from residue volume 70 with from the articles of sheet material 26 of main sheet product volume 72 is overlapping, receives the articles of sheet material 26 of a shortening so that prevent the user.Therefore, these sensors 166,168 can transmit a signal, and cause master controller 38 entering before residue volume 70 exhausts fully to be passed on the cycle 80 (Fig. 4).This embodiment that substitutes can be placed, be placed on this articles of sheet material 26 near the end of this volume through the indicator with some kind and realize further from these winding up roller assemblies 124,126 through sensor 166,168.

In case preceding limb 246 is engaged with in these winding up roller assemblies 124,126, actuator 254 just is de-energized, thereby causes plunger 252 under the effect of the for example power of a spring (not shown), to be withdrawn.Feasible bar 248 pivots that pass on of this withdrawal of plunger 252 turn back to its original position.This has allowed to pass on bar 248 when sheet product dispenser 20 is loaded once more, can be in convenient for maintaining personnel's the position.

In the process of loading once more, the maintenance personal need remember the preceding limb 246 of residue volume 70 or main sheet product volume 72 is placed in the winding up roller assembly 74, thereby makes articles of sheet material 26 suitably to be assigned with.The maintenance personal can rotate this winding up roller assembly by hand or can use drive motor assembly 92 to make articles of sheet material 26 engage with winding up roller assembly 74.Can be through activating a switch or being sent button 258 to make this drive motor assembly 92 be activated (Fig. 5 to Fig. 7).Once in a while, the maintenance personal can load sheet product dispenser 20 once more, and forgets articles of sheet material 26 is loaded in the winding up roller assembly 74.Consequently, sheet product dispenser 20 is full, but articles of sheet material 26 can not supply to use.

Operation sheet product dispenser 20 is so that a kind of method 260 of carrier sheet section product 26 is illustrated among Figure 26 automatically.Method 260 advances to query frame 264 from frame 262 beginnings, determines whether to have begun to load once more operation herein.If query frame 264 has returned the result who negates, method 260 just turns back to beginning frame 262.If query frame 264 has returned definite results, method 260 just advances to frame 266, and articles of sheet material 26 for example is loaded in the sheet product dispenser 20 as the maintenance personal herein.Then, method 260 advances to query frame 268, determines whether that herein protecgulum 22 has been closed or has changed.Thereby show that the filling once more of articles of sheet material 26 proceeds if query frame 268 has returned the result who negates, method 260 just turns back to frame 266.If query frame 268 has returned the result who negates, method 260 just advances to frame 270.

In frame 270, a counter variable " n " is set to 0.Method 260 advances to query frame 272 then, confirms herein whether (for example as through sensor 166,168) has the ready articles of sheet material 26 for distribution in the distribution line of rabbet joint 32.Thereby show that the maintenance personal has suitably loaded articles of sheet material 26 if query frame 272 has returned the result who negates, so method 260 just advances to frame 274, method 260 stops herein.

If query frame 272 has returned the result who negates, this shows that sensor 166,168 does not detect articles of sheet material 26.So method 260 just advances to query frame 276, determine whether that herein counter variable " n " equals a predetermined number, for example four.This variable " n " confirmed this sheet product dispenser 20 when attempting carrier sheet section product 26 to passing on the number of times that bar assembly 94 activates.For fear of battery, in one embodiment, before sheet product dispenser 20 releasings are launched, allow the number of attempt (as for example defining) of a maximum through variable " n ".If query frame 276 has been confirmed the maximum attempts (for example four times) that this variable " n " equals to hope, so method 260 just advances to frame 274 and stops.

If query frame 276 has returned the result who negates, so method 260 just advances to frame 278, the bar assembly 94 that passes on is herein activated in the once trial that articles of sheet material 26 is loaded in the winding up roller assembly 74 with drive motor assembly 92 successively.Then, method 260 advances to frame 280, and counter variable " n " is by being increased progressively herein, and method 260 turns back to query frame 272, determines whether that herein sensor 166,168 detects articles of sheet material 26.Method 260 continues to attempt carrier sheet section product 26, detects articles of sheet material 26 up to arbitrary sensor 166,168, has perhaps reached maximum number of attempt.

Be arranged to the optical sensor that there is the end user in sensing through mentioning, the launching or begin of operation of a distributor has been described in these some embodiments that provide, yet desired invention should be so not limited.It should be understood that this is for exemplary purposes, and the operation of a distributor can spur and is activated or begins through the user on articles of sheet material 26.This operator scheme (being known as " mode of suspension " sometimes) comprises a sensor (not shown) that is associated with a tear fracture bar; For example common unsettled, the title of applicant is those sensors described in the U.S. Patent application (attorney docket number GPA0034US) of " sheet product dispenser that has sensor that is used for sheet separation ", and the content of this patent application is combined in this by reference in full.

This written specification utilizes instance to disclose the present invention, comprises best pattern, and makes any technical staff of this area can put into practice the present invention, comprises the method for producing and using any device or system and implement any combination.The scope of patentability of the present invention defines through claim, and can comprise other instances that those skilled in the art is expected.If these instances have the structural element that is not different from mutually with the word language of this claim; If or these instances comprise that having not is the equivalent constructions key element that is different from the word language of this claim in fact, other instance purport of this type is in the atmosphere of this claim.Equally; In accompanying drawing and explanation; Disclosed a plurality of exemplary of the present invention, although and used specific term, unless otherwise indicated; They are only belonging to class and descriptive sense rather than are using from restrictive purpose, and therefore scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.And, use a technical term first, second, or the like do not represent any order or importance, and use a technical term first, second, or the like so that an element is different from another element.In addition, use a technical term one, a kind of, or the like do not represent a kind of quantitative limitation, but there is at least one project of quoting in expression.

Claims

1. sheet product dispenser comprises:

One is passed on bar, and this passes on bar is movably between a primary importance and second place;

A winding up roller assembly, this winding up roller assembly be positioned at said second position of passing on bar near, said winding up roller assembly has one and gives and send winding up roller and one to clamp winding up roller;

An electromechanical actuator, this electromechanical actuator have and are connected to a said moveable portion of passing on the bar, and wherein said moveable portion is arranged to and between the said primary importance and the said second place, moves the said bar that passes on; And

A sensor; This sensor is in exercisable the connection with said winding up roller assembly; Said sensor is electrically connected on the said electromechanical actuator, and wherein said moveable portion is in response to from a signal of said sensor and the said bar that passes on is moved to the said second place from said primary importance.

2. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensor are photodetectors with a light emitting diode and a receiver.

3. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 2, wherein said photodetector are arranged to the light from said diode are directed to said being sent on the winding up roller.

4. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 3, wherein said to being sent winding up roller to comprise a surface, the reflection of light from said diode is reduced on this surface.

5. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 1; Wherein said sensor is a microswitch; This microswitch has between a primary importance and second place movably indicator, and the wherein said second place is sent winding up roller contacted with said.

6. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

One first conducting ring, this first conducting ring are connected to said being sent on the winding up roller;

One second conducting ring, this second conducting ring are connected on the said clamping winding up roller; And

Wherein said first conducting ring and said second conducting ring are arranged to form a circuit when articles of sheet material can not supply the branch timing.

7. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

A controller, this controller are connected electrically between said sensor and the said electromechanical actuator, said controller for a plurality of executable instructions be response so that in response to from a signal of said sensor and said electromechanical actuator is launched.

8. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 7 further comprises:

A motor, this motor are operably connected on the said controller;

Wherein said controller is responses for a plurality of executable instructions further, operates said motor so that continue the time of a scheduled volume in response to said electromechanical actuator is activated.

9. method of distributing articles of sheet material, said method comprises:

One first articles of sheet material of sensing is given near the existence send the winding up roller at one;

If do not sense said first articles of sheet material then produce a signal;

Launch an electromechanical actuator in response to said signal; And

When said electromechanical actuator is activated, the head end of one second articles of sheet material is moved to a second place from a primary importance.

10. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 9, the said sensing of wherein said first articles of sheet material comprises a radiative step.

11. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 10, if wherein said emission light is received by a receiver, then said first articles of sheet material is not sensed.

12. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 10, if wherein said emission light is not received by a receiver, then said first articles of sheet material is not sensed.

13. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 9, wherein said first articles of sheet material are by being arranged near the said mechanical switch sensing sending the winding up roller given.

14. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 9, the said sensing of wherein said first articles of sheet material comprise the step of the flow of current of one second conducting ring on one first conducting ring to, second winding up roller of sensing from one first winding up roller.

15. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 9 further comprises in response to the head end of said second articles of sheet material being moved to the said second place and continuing the step that time of a scheduled volume operates a motor from said primary importance.

16. the method for distribution articles of sheet material as claimed in claim 10 is wherein saidly only launched on the direction send winding up roller said give.

17. the distributor with articles of sheet material, said distributor comprises:

A winding up roller assembly with an axle, said winding up roller assembly are arranged to rotate so that distribute said articles of sheet material at a first direction in response to one first signal;

Be connected to a cam on the end of said axle, said cam has a protrusion, and this protrusion comprises a first surface and a second surface; And

Have a switch of an actuator arm, said switch is positioned near the said cam, and when said winding up roller assembly rotated on said first direction, said actuator arm contacted said first surface;

The angle of wherein said second surface is confirmed as and makes that said actuator slides into said first surface from said second surface when said winding up roller assembly is rotated on a second direction.

18. distributor as claimed in claim 17, wherein said actuator arm comprise a curved surfaces, wherein said curved surfaces contacts said first surface.

19. distributor as claimed in claim 18, wherein said actuator arm comprises:

A first between said switch and said curved surfaces; And

From the second portion that said curved surfaces extends, wherein said second portion is to be substantially perpendicular to said first.

20. distributor as claimed in claim 19, wherein said cam comprise four protrusions arranging around said cam circumference.

21. distributor as claimed in claim 17 further comprises:

A motor, this motor are operably connected to said winding up roller are rotated; And

A controller; This controller is electrically connected on said motor and the said switch; Said controller has a processor; This processor for a plurality of executable computer instructions be response and be used for said motor being launched in response to said first signal, and launch in response to said motor is removed.

22. distributor as claimed in claim 21, wherein said controller further for a plurality of executable computer instructions be response and be used in response to the said secondary signal that receives a predetermined number from said switch said motor removed and activate.

23. a sheet product dispenser comprises:

An electromechanical actuator;

A cam, this cam are operably connected on the said electromechanical actuator so that turn to a second place from a primary importance, and said cam has a surface above that;

A cam arm; This cam arm is arranged near the said cam slidably; Said cam arm has a first that contacts with said surface; Wherein when said cam when said primary importance moves to the said second place, said cam arm moves to one the 4th position from one the 3rd position; And

A transfer arm, this transfer arm are connected on the said cam arm, and said transfer arm moves to said the 4th position in response to said cam arm from said the 3rd position and between one the 5th position and the 6th position, is movably.

24. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 23, wherein said electromechanical actuator are motor.

25. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 24 further comprises one first gear that is connected between said motor and the said cam.

26. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 24 further comprises a underframe, this underframe has first contact pin and one second contact pin adjacent with said cam, and wherein said motor and said cam are operably connected on the said underframe.

27. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 26, wherein said cam comprises:

With a side of said surface opposite on one second gear, the size of said second gear is confirmed as and this first gears engaged; And

One second protuberance of one first protuberance and contiguous said second gear; Said first protuberance is arranged to when said cam is in said primary importance, contact said first contact pin and said second contact pin with said second protuberance, and said first protuberance further is arranged to said second protuberance contacts said first contact pin and said second contact pin when said cam is in the said second place.

28. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 27; Further comprise a controller that is electrically connected on the said motor; Said controller has a processor; This processor for a plurality of executable computer instructions be response and be used on a first direction rotating said motor and arrive one first stall position up to said motor, said processor still be response and be used on a second direction, rotating said motor and arrive one second stall position up to said motor.

29. a distributor that is used for articles of sheet material comprises:

A framework;

Be connected to a winding up roller assembly on the said framework, said winding up roller assembly is arranged on a first direction, rotate so that distribute said articles of sheet material;

A motor with an axle;

Be connected an insulating element between said motor and the said framework; And

Be connected a belt between said winding up roller assembly and the said axle.

30. distributor as claimed in claim 29, wherein said insulating element is processed by butadiene.

31. distributor as claimed in claim 30, wherein said insulating element has the hardness of a Shore A level.

32. distributor as claimed in claim 29 further comprises:

One first belt pulley, this first belt pulley are connected on the said axle, and are positioned between said belt and the said axle, and said first belt pulley has more than first tooth that extends around its circumference; And

One second belt pulley, this second belt pulley are connected to and said winding up roller assembly is rotated and are positioned between said winding up roller assembly and the said belt, and said second belt pulley has around more than second tooth of its circumference extension.

33. a method of operating sheet product dispenser, this method comprises:

Determine when that a lid is closed;

After said lid is closed, confirm that articles of sheet material is not distributable;

When definite articles of sheet material is not to supply the branch timing, activates one and pass on bar;

Launch a drive motor; And

Make the articles of sheet material location so that distribute.

34. method as claimed in claim 33 further comprises:

After launching said motor, confirm that said articles of sheet material is not distributable; And

Said bar and the said step of launching said motor of passing on of repeated actuation.

35. method as claimed in claim 34 further comprises:

With confirming that articles of sheet material is not to supply to distribute, activate said predetermined times of said step repetition of passing on bar and launching said motor.

36. method as claimed in claim 35, wherein said pre-determined number are three times.

37. method as claimed in claim 35 further comprises signal of generation when confirming that articles of sheet material can not supply to distribute, activates the said said step of passing on bar and launching said motor and has been repeated said predetermined times.

38. a sheet product dispenser comprises:

A protecgulum;

An optical transmitting set, this photophore are positioned near this protecgulum and on one first angle with respect to this protecgulum, and said optical transmitting set is with optical signal of shape emission of one first taper; And

An optical receiver; This optical receiver is positioned in apart from one first distance of this photophore and on one second angle with respect to said protecgulum, and it is the regional receiving optical signals of shape of one second taper on the whole that said optical receiver is configured to;

Wherein said first angle and said second angle are arranged to make said first taper and said second taper overlapping.

39. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 38 further comprises the overlapping zone that limits through said first taper and said second taper.

40. sheet product dispenser as claimed in claim 38, wherein:

Said first distance is three inches;

Said zone is the polygon on four limits, and said zone has a part apart from a second distance of this protecgulum; And

Said first angle and said this second angle are arranged to make that a second distance is three inches.